Odesnik’s unfortunate Two-year ban

Wayne Odesnik the American tennis player, ranked 114th in the world, has been banned for two years by the International Tennis Federation for violating doping rules by possessing human growth hormone.

Odesnik, 24, had not obtained a therapeutic use exemption for the HGH, of which eight vials were found in his luggage by customs officials in Australia in January.

The South African-born left-hander stressed he had intended to seek permission for the HGH before using it, and said he had not used it at the time of its discovery.

His suspension is backdated to December 29 and will end on December 28 next year. His results since December 29 have been quashed and he must forfeit ranking points and prize-money of just over £60,000 from the tournaments he has participated in.

Wimbledon Tennis has been relatively free of drug scandals, however the recent revelation by Andre Agassi that after his positive drug test for crystal meth, he lied about how it came to be in his body to avoid a ban. His revelation have not sat well with many players, especially as the ATP will not be taking action against him as it was so long ago.

It is unfortunate that Odesnik has had to suffer this ban, but to ensure a clean image for the sport and for the Wimbledon Tennis Tournament, players must realise that they cannot let anything slide.

Debenture seats for Wimbledon 2010 arte still available but selling fast. Book your tickets at Official Wimbledon Debentures to ensure you are guaranteed your day and seats Wimbledon Debenture Tickets